Man jailed for preying on elderly residents in Notts

Danielle Hayden

A 43-year-old fraudster has been jailed for preying on the kindness elderly residents in Nottinghamshire.

Arfan Chaudry, of Rosegarth Walk, Bulwell, knocked on the doors of elderly residents in Sherwood, Forest Fields and Whitemoor between November 2015 and March 2016 claiming to be locked out of his nearby home.

He asked to use their phone to call a relative then asked to borrow money for a taxi, promising to bring it straight back - but they didn’t hear from him again.

Chaudry previously admitted six counts of fraud by false representation and a burglary and theft offence.

He was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in jail at Nottingham Crown Court on Monday, April 11.

Detective Inspector Amy Styles, of Radford Road CID, said: “Chaudry’s convictions are thanks to timely incident reporting from the community, and the linking of these similar crimes by officers.

“These offences were committed against some of our most vulnerable residents, with Chaudry preying on their kindness. An intrusive ordeal that has left many of them feeling both embarrassed and annoyed that their good will was abused in this way.

“Be aware that there are others out there who seek to do as Chaudry did. Be wise to scams of this nature.

“If someone knocks at your door, use the peephole or window to check who it is. If you do not know them or are not sure as to their identity, ask them through the door who they are and always ask to see identification.

If still in doubt call the company they work for to check their details as any genuine caller should not mind you doing so.

“If you are still unsure who is at the door, or have any doubts, simply don’t answer it.

“Spread the word, be vigilant and look out for those neighbours and relatives who may be more vulnerable to fraudsters.”

If you suspect someone of this type of crime call us on 101 or phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.